Top 12 dogs best at protecting you

Having a dog can be beneficial in many ways. They love us and we love them. We get exercise together. We keep each other from getting too lonely. And, of course, dogs help keep us safe at home, or on a nighttime walk. Some dogs are better than others, according to PuppyToob.com. See which 12 breeds are the best at protection.

A breed known for its strength, protection instincts and extreme loyalty. If an intruder crosses its path, a Bullmastiff will knock them over or block them. The breed is very docile in a family environment, however, and makes a great household pet.

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If you have a big piece of land you’re trying to protect, this is the guard dog for you. This breed is incredibly fast and can reach an intruder in a short amount of time. The fifth-smartest dog breed in the world, they are fearless, alert and loyal.

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Originally bred to protect cattle, they are known to be relentless protectors. An intelligent breed and extremely loyal, they are known to be aloof with strangers until properly introduced. They’re also very quick learners.

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Traditionally used to protect sheep, the Komondor has a natural guard-dog ability. This breed is active, courageous, loyal and known for its dignity and strength. If properly socialized and trained, it can make a devoted family pet.

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Pulis are known for their suspicious nature. They’re always alert and will bark to alert owners if anything unusual’s going on. They are smart, require constant companionship, and need a family with an active lifestyle (running, hiking, playing).

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These are strong, powerful and dominant dogs that require strict training and constant attention. They are compact and intimidating, and their extreme family loyalty makes them excellent guard dogs.

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Bold, confident and fearless, this breed is extremely smart and quick to learn commands, making them a favorite police dog breed. They have a calm demeanor when in a household but can quickly react when their family is threatened.

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Originally bred to hunt lions, this dog has a strong prey drive and can be independent in nature. They are said to be selective in barking, so when a Ridgeback barks, it needs to be taken seriously. They also love to cuddle like lap dogs.

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This breed is very territorial and has a strong instinct to guard its family and home. The Kuvasz tends to be aloof with strangers, but craves affection from its family.

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Often confused with the American Pit Bull Terrier, this dog was bred for bear and bull fighting. Aggressive and protective, they make good guard dogs but must be trained early. They’re known to be aggressive only when protecting a family member.

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This large breed has strong protective instincts and will immediately investigate any hint of an intrusion into his home. Unlike other dogs, this dog investigates quietly and if it barks, it means something may be seriously wrong.

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Looks like a fierce predator – acts like a gentle giant. This friendly breed loves to lounge around the house. Although not much of a guard dog in personality, the mere sight of one would send any criminal running for the hills.

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